tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699Tue, 03 Mar 2015 16:06:30 +0000WashingtoninsuranceMike Kreidlercommissionerflood insurancehealth insurancereformOICWhat a Seattle tsunami would look likeannuitiesauto accidentauto insuranceblogcar accidentcar insurancecollisioncomprehensivecostdangerdiscount health plansfirehealth insurance newsinsurance bloginsurance newsinsurelawlower costnewsorgan transplantspet insurancetermstranslatetsunami insurancewhat to dowildfiresWashington State Insurance UpdateConsumer help and news from Washington's insurance regulatorhttp://wainsurance.blogspot.com/noreply@blogger.com (Kara K)Blogger999125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-390617618217566757Mon, 02 Mar 2015 21:31:00 +00002015-03-02T13:31:34.458-08:00Protecting insurance consumers all year roundThis week is <a href="http://www.ncpw.gov/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">National Consumer Protection Week</a> and the OIC is one of the many government agencies that helps protect consumers from financial harm.<div><br />So what does that mean for Washington consumers? <br /><br />Consumer protection is part of the OIC’s mission, which is reflected in the way we do business. Our consumer advocates can help: <br /><ul><li>Answer questions about home, auto, health, life, annuities, business and other insurance.&nbsp;</li><li>Understand your insurance rights, including your <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/health-insurance/appeal/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">health insurance appeal rights and the process</a>.&nbsp;</li><li>Understand how <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/current-issues-reform/health-care-reform/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">health reform</a> works.&nbsp;</li><li>Look into <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/complaints-and-fraud/file-a-complaint/insurance-company/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">complaints against insurance companies</a>.&nbsp;</li><li>Provide you with information about your insurance options.&nbsp;</li><li>Verify if an <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/consumertoolkit/search.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">agent, agency, or company is authorized to sell insurance</a> in Washington state.&nbsp;</li></ul>In 2014, our consumer advocates fielded 6,135 consumer complaints and helped recover more than $9.5 million in insurance billings, refunds and other claims-related issues for Washington citizens. <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-oic/news-media/news-releases/2015/02-02-2015.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read more about the ways we helped consumers in 2014</a>. <br /><br />We share information of interest to insurance consumers on this blog and through our <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-oic/news-media/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">social media channels</a>. Many of our blog posts are generated by questions our consumer advocates receive from Washington citizens. <br /><br />More resources for consumers:<br /><ul><li>Reach us by phone at 1-800-562-6900 or <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/email-us/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">online</a>.</li><li><a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/complaints-and-fraud/file-a-complaint/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">File a complaint</a> against an insurance company or agent.&nbsp;</li><li>Read more about <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-oic/what-we-do/advocate-for-consumers/consumer-advocacy/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">consumer advocacy at OIC</a>.</li><li>Read more about <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">your insurance</a>, including home, life, auto, health, annuities and business.</li></ul></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7hS2SrPP8EE/VPTVSI3IHNI/AAAAAAAAATI/W02UsPqS5Qo/s1600/CA-Andy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7hS2SrPP8EE/VPTVSI3IHNI/AAAAAAAAATI/W02UsPqS5Qo/s1600/CA-Andy.jpg" height="167" width="200" /></a><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ttQM2XtjV2A/VPTVTq7Y41I/AAAAAAAAATQ/wefnLrBlQ1c/s1600/CA-Barb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ttQM2XtjV2A/VPTVTq7Y41I/AAAAAAAAATQ/wefnLrBlQ1c/s1600/CA-Barb.jpg" height="120" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Consumer advocates Andy and Barb helping consumers on the phone.&nbsp;</i>&nbsp;&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></div>http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2015/03/protecting-insurance-consumers-all-year.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-1212939008551487529Mon, 23 Feb 2015 17:46:00 +00002015-02-23T09:47:22.155-08:00Warranty buyers beware - know what you are paying for<br />Consumers can buy warranties on any number of products these days, ranging from a new vehicle to a small gadget or appliance. Before you lay down more money for a warranty, here are a few things you should know:<br /><ul><li>Be sure you fully read any warranties before you buy them and don't be afraid to ask questions if something you read needs clarification.</li><li>Warranties do not cover all damage. For example: Vehicle warranties may exclude&nbsp;damage related to after-market&nbsp;modifications to engines, power trains or suspension systems. If you buy a used vehicle that comes with these types of modifications, the warranty may not cover damage to or in the event that those modifications fail. Be sure you understand the limitations of any warranty you are thinking about buying.</li><li>Some warranties require you to pay a fee or copayment if you need to use the warranty. For example, smartphone warranties often require you to pay a fee each time you use them. </li><li>Do the math. Weigh the cost of the warranty over the time period it covers. Would it cost you the same or less money to replace the item if it broke during the warranty period? </li><li>Does your homeowner or renter's insurance cover the item? Your policy may cover you if the item is stolen or destroyed in a fire or other incident. Check your policies and deductibles first, and remember that insurance policies typically don't cover damage&nbsp;to items that you break.&nbsp; </li></ul>Read more about <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/warranties-service-contracts/">warranties and service contracts</a> on our website. Questions? You can <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-oic/what-we-do/advocate-for-consumers/consumer-advocacy/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">contact our consumer advocates online</a> or at 1-800-562-6900.<br /><br /><br />http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2015/02/warranty-buyers-beware-know-what-you.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-6378351793628583015Fri, 20 Feb 2015 16:46:00 +00002015-02-20T08:46:44.957-08:00Does your insurance premium seem high? Make sure your agent has right infoIf you receive your homeowner or automobile insurance renewal and think the premium doesn’t seem right, it’s a good idea to check in with your insurance agent to make sure the company is using accurate information in the rating of your policy. Insurers use many factors to determine the amount you pay for insurance, some of which include where you live, the type and value of the property you are insuring, your driving record, marital status and your driving habits.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /><br />You should confirm all of that information is accurate, including your social security number, which insurers collect for to get your credit score. Most insurance companies use information in your credit history and other factors to calculate your rate. Each company weighs these factors differently, so your credit score’s effect on your insurance rates will vary from company to company. Read more about <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/current-issues-reform/credit-scoring/">credit scoring and insurance</a>.&nbsp; <br /><br />If your insurance agent or company has any of this information incorrect, it can result in you paying more—or less--than you should for your insurance.<br /><br />If you have questions about insurance, contact our consumer advocates <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-oic/what-we-do/advocate-for-consumers/consumer-advocacy/talk-with-an-expert/">online</a> or at 1-800-562-6900.<br /> http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2015/02/does-your-insurance-premium-seem-high.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-3279202362649715377Thu, 19 Feb 2015 21:57:00 +00002015-02-19T13:57:47.401-08:00Consumer alert: Recent widows are target of life insurance scam We’ve received reports that a scammer is targeting people who recently lost a spouse in the Spokane area.<br /><br />The scammer has called several women who recently lost their husbands. The caller says there’s a life insurance policy on the spouse, but the policy hasn’t been paid on in recent months. The caller instructed the surviving spouse to send cash or gift cards in order to get the life insurance benefit. In all cases, no policy existed.<br /><br />If you get an inquiry from someone who says they have an insurance policy you’ve never heard of, document as much information as you can in case you need to report it to the police. Then, call the insurer and determine whether there is in fact a policy. You can <a href="http://bit.ly/insurancelookup" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">look up insurance companies and their phone numbers</a> on our website. If you find out someone is attempting to scam you, report it to your local law enforcement agency. You can <a href="http://www.resourcehouse.com/WIN211/default.aspx?se=none" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">find a list of law enforcement agencies</a> on the state's 211 website.<br /><br />An insurance company will never call you and ask you to send them cash or gift cards in order to get a life insurance benefit. Sadly, even during a time of grief, consumers have to be on guard against scammers.<br /><br /><strong>More information:</strong><br /><ul><li> If you have questions about insurance, contact our consumer advocates <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-oic/what-we-do/advocate-for-consumers/consumer-advocacy/talk-with-an-expert/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">online</a> or at 1-800-562-6900.<br /></li><li>Read about <a href="file:///H:/FR/bit.ly/findlifepolicy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">how to find an old life insurance policy</a> on our blog.</li></ul>http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2015/02/consumer-alert-recent-widows-are-target.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-4860257732118452982Wed, 11 Feb 2015 23:36:00 +00002015-02-11T15:36:40.881-08:00Top 10 types of complaints we got from consumers in 2014A big part of what we do is helping consumers resolve complaints they have against insurance companies. In 2014, we received and processed 6,135 complaints from consumers and helped them recover more than $9.5 million in insurance billings, refunds and claims issues. <br /><div>Here are the top five categories of complaints we fielded from consumers in 2014 for both property and casualty (P&amp;C) insurance, and life and disability (L&amp;D) insurance.&nbsp;</div>&nbsp;<strong></strong><br /><strong>Property insurance</strong> covers losses of physical property, including homes, rental residences, anything you own, vehicles, boats, and essentially anything you own. <strong>Casualty insurance</strong> pays for negligence and liability. Collectively, property and casualty insurance is referred to as P&amp;C insurance. Not surprisingly, three of the top five complaint types we got for P&amp;C insurance involve auto insurance and claims.<br /><ol><li><strong>Auto insurance liability claims</strong>. Frequent complaints we heard from consumers involved disputes of liability in auto claims, the degree of their liability in the claim, poor investigations by insurers, disputed accident facts and complaints from at-fault drivers about insurers trying to collect money from them. </li><li><strong>Personal injury protection (PIP) claims</strong>. Washington drivers can get PIP insurance to pay for claims that involve injuries to the driver and passengers in their personal vehicles. We received complaints about delayed payments, denied claims, reduced payments, insurers questioning the medical necessity of care, and their requests for medical exams following an accident. PIP insurance is additional coverage to an auto insurance policy and consumers can choose to waive the coverage; however, they often don’t recall waiving the coverage and call us to complain that their insurer won’t pay PIP claims. It’s important to read your policies and know what you are covered for.&nbsp;&nbsp; </li><li><strong>Auto collision claims</strong>. Complaints included delayed payments, denied payments, reduced payments, and arguments about what caused the collision. Insurers do not have to pay for damage that wasn’t caused by a covered peril, such as a collision. For example, if the car’s axle snaps and causes the driver to crash, the insurer will pay for the collision damage but they won’t pay for the snapped axle because it’s a maintenance issue. We also heard from consumers who had complaints about the auto shops they selected to do the repairs. We do not regulate repair shops or repair work, so it’s up to consumers to work with the businesses they select. </li><li><strong>Commercial insurance claims</strong>. Commercial insurance is purchased by businesses to cover their property and liability related to their business. We heard from consumers about delayed claim payments, denied payments, reduced payments and disagreements about what caused the loss. As with auto collisions, we heard from businesses that had issues with contractors and the way they did repair work, which is not under our regulatory authority. We also heard from businesses about premium audits, which insurance companies are allowed to conduct periodically to evaluate whether the business is paying a premium that’s too high or too low for their policies, and we received complaints when insurers canceled or opted not to renew policies, which they are allowed to do with advance written notice. </li><li><strong>Homeowner insurance</strong>, which covers your home, contents, and personal liability. We received complaints from consumers about delayed claim payments, denied claim payments, reduced payments, liability disputes, problems with contractors and their work, policy cancellations and non-renewals. We also received complaints about insurance companies not paying for the cause of the loss. For example, if an old hot water tank bursts due to rust and deterioration, and the water damages your floors, the insurer will generally pay for the damage to the floors but not to replace the old water tank, which is considered a homeowner maintenance expense.&nbsp;</li></ol><div> <strong>Life insurance</strong> pays your beneficiaries after your death. <strong>Health insurance</strong> helps pay for medicine, visits to the doctor or emergency room, hospital stays and other medical expenses. <strong>Disability insura</strong>nce pays you an income if you become disabled and unable to work. We respond daily to questions about health insurance coverage and policies. Here are the top five complaint types:</div><ol><li><strong>Medical necessity denials</strong>. Consumers filed complaints with us after their insurance companies denied surgery or treatment preauthorization because they questioned the medical necessity of the treatment. Health insurance plans define medical necessity in their contracts, which generally state the treatments must be in accordance with generally accepted standards of medical practice, clinically appropriate in terms of type, frequency, extent, site and duration and considered effective for the patient’s illness, injury or disease. Washington state insurance laws do not give our agency the authority to make medical judgments or determine when a treatment is medically necessary. When insurers deny coverage based on medical necessity, we encourage consumers to exhaust their appeal rights and involve their providers in their appeals.</li><li><strong>Preauthorization of certain medications</strong>. Health insurers require preauthorization of certain medications before they will pay for the drug, depending on if the drug is medically necessary. Medical insurance plans set medication policy criteria based on accepted standards of practice, peer-reviewed medical literature and the availability of similarly effective and less costly options, including generic drugs. Washington state insurance laws do not give our agency the authority to make medical judgments or determine when a drug is medically necessary. When insurers deny coverage based on medical necessity, we encourage consumers to exhaust their appeal rights and involve their providers in their appeals. </li><li><strong>Policyholder services</strong>. Some of the most common complaints we received involved premium notices and billing. The premium is the consumer’s monthly cost for insurance. We heard from many consumers who purchased a plan through the Washington Health Benefits Exchange. Because there was a delay in transmitting premiums from the Exchange to the health insurance companies, consumers’ health insurance was suspended and sometimes cancelled. We assisted consumers in establishing their coverage and getting medications. We also heard from consumers about cancellations. Sometimes policies were cancelled because the policyholder failed to advise the insurer that they had a different bank account, resulting in non-payment of premiums. In some cases we were able to get coverage reinstated. We also helped consumers reinstate their coverage when the entire family’s health plan was cancelled by mistake instead of removing coverage for just one family member.&nbsp; </li><li><strong>Life insurance</strong>. Life insurance companies can require consumers to answer questions about their medical history and their lifestyle practices. Sometimes, life insurance policies lapse because the consumer misses payments due to a move or for other reasons. If this happens to you, contact the company immediately and ask that your policy be reinstated. Depending on your situation, the company may reinstate your policy without requesting that you provide current medical information.</li><li><strong>Claim-handling delays</strong>. We received complaints from consumers about delays in processing claims. In those cases, we contacted the company to find out the reason for the delay. Sometimes we found delays were caused by human errors--the wrong information was submitted by the medical provider or the provider used the wrong Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ol><div>If you have a complaint, <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/connect-with-us/contact-us/consumers/">contact our consumer advocates</a> by phone or online. Read more <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-oic/news-media/news-releases/2015/02-02-2015.html">about how we helped consumers in 2014</a>. </div><div>&nbsp;</div>http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2015/02/top-10-types-of-complaints-we-got-from.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-3984360710441460603Thu, 05 Feb 2015 22:52:00 +00002015-02-05T14:52:33.489-08:00Washington consumers and the Anthem data breachInsurance giant Anthem <a href="http://www.nbcnews.com/business/consumer/anthem-breach-what-should-i-do-right-now-n300796" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">today announced that up to 80 million consumers nationwide may be affected by a data breach</a> of current and former customers’ names, social security numbers, contact information and birthdates. It does not appear that any health information was obtained. <br /><br />Anthem has told the Insurance Commissioner that affected Washington consumers are largely enrolled in <a href="http://www.hca.wa.gov/medicaid/Pages/index.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apple Health</a>, the state’s Medicaid program. Anthem does not have any indications at this time that Washington consumers who are enrolled in private, individual health insurance are affected by the breach. <br /><br />Insurers are required to <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/for-insurers/new-laws-rules-insurers/new-insurer-security-breach-regulations/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">notify the Insurance Commissioner of security breaches</a> that involve Washington consumers’ information. The Insurance Commissioner will remain in close contact with Anthem as more information is available. The Insurance Commissioner is also working with the <a href="http://www.naic.org/newsroom_statement_150205_naic_statement_on_anthem_security_breach.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">National Association of Insurance Commissioners</a> on this increasingly common occurrence. <br /><br />Anthem has created a webpage at <a href="http://www.anthemfacts.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.anthemfacts.com</a> for consumers to find information about the breach and set up a toll-free number for people with questions at 1-877-263-7995. Anthem will contact affected consumers and is offering free credit monitoring and identity protection to people who are affected. http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2015/02/washington-consumers-and-anthem-data.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-5312080221128482532Thu, 05 Feb 2015 20:05:00 +00002015-02-05T12:05:46.745-08:00Two men plead guilty in thwarted insurance fraud attemptTwo men pleaded guilty to attempted theft in an insurance fraud case that was investigated by Insurance Commisisoner Mike Kreidler’s <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/complaints-and-fraud/report-fraud/special-investigations-unit/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Special Investigations Unit</a> (SIU). <br /><br />In January 2014, Emad Mohammed, 26, crashed a 2003 Corolla while merging onto I-5 from SR 516, totaling the car and injuring himself. That day, his cousin Imran Nsaif, 30, called his insurer, Progressive, to make a claim on his commercial auto policy. Nsaif operated a truck that transported autos on a trailer and claimed the Corolla was struck by a hit-and-run driver while Mohammed was loading it onto the truck. Nsaif told the insurance company he was transporting the car for an auto dealership and they were loading the car onto the truck on the side of the road. Progressive obtained a copy of the Washington State Patrol collision report, which contradicted what Nsaif and Mohammed told the insurance company. Additionally, the collision scene photos did not show Mohammed’s rig at the scene of the accident.<br /><br />Progressive denied the $7,500 claim and referred the case to Commissioner Kreidler’s SIU. <br /><br />Mohamed and Nsaif were charged in King County Superior Court in September 2014 with a felony. On Jan. 29, 2015, Mohammed and Nsaif pleaded guilty to attempted theft and were sentenced to 100 hours of community service, to be completed by July 29.<br /><br />Insurance fraud costs everyone. Estimated to be 10 percent of all insurance claims, the cost of fraud is passed on to consumers through increased premiums. Citizens can <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/complaints-and-fraud/report-fraud/report-fraud-scams/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">report suspected insurance fraud</a> to the Insurance Commissioner. <br /><br />http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2015/02/two-men-plead-guilty-in-thwarted_5.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-3865887853524796788Mon, 02 Feb 2015 21:32:00 +00002015-02-02T13:32:09.896-08:00Less than two weeks left to enroll in health plan for 2015The last day to enroll in a health plan for 2015 is Feb. 15. Coverage takes effect March 1 if you enroll before 11:59 p.m.<br /><br />If you qualify for a <a href="http://wahbexchange.org/news-resources/calculate-your-costs/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">subsidy</a> or Medicaid, you should obtain health insurance through the <a href="http://www.wahealthplanfinder.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Washington Healthplanfinder</a>, our state’s health benefit exchange. If you do not qualify for a subsidy, you can buy a health plan directly from an insurance company. <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/health-insurance/individuals-families/health-plans-rates/index.html">Here’s a list</a> of the plans that are available in Washington. <br /><br />There are ways to qualify for a special enrollment after Feb. 15, including losing health coverage provided by an employer, adding dependents and consumers who had trouble enrolling through Washington Healthplanfinder. <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/health-insurance/individuals-families/special-enrollment-periods/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Read more about special enrollments</a>.<br /><br />Need more information? <br /><ul><li>Read about <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/health-insurance/understanding-health-insurance/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">understanding health insurance</a>. </li><li>Get <a href="http://wahbexchange.org/customer-resources/healthplanfinder-quick-tips/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">application quick tips</a> from Washington Healthplanfinder. </li></ul>http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2015/02/less-than-two-weeks-left-to-enroll-in.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-8957915700068525785Fri, 09 Jan 2015 22:37:00 +00002015-01-09T14:37:50.782-08:00National insurance watchdog finds OIC meets, exceeds accreditation standardsThe OIC has retained its accreditation with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). Every five years, the NAIC conducts a rigorous, in-depth review by an outside team of experts to ensure the OIC meets or exceeds nationwide financial solvency policies and standards in its regulatory oversight of insurance companies that do business in Washington state. It also allows insurance companies to expect consistent regulation in all accredited states. <br /><br />The OIC’s most recent review resulted in no findings and a recommendation for full reaccreditation for another five years. The efforts of the OIC, led by Commissioner Kreidler, in fulfilling its mission in this area give assurance to Washington consumers that the companies they do business with are financially sound and fully complying with all required rules and regulations.<br /><br />This OIC has maintained its NAIC reaccreditation for the past 15 years under Commissioner Kreidler. Our next review is in 2019. http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2015/01/national-insurance-watchdog-finds-oic.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-6722363588497737404Mon, 05 Jan 2015 23:38:00 +00002015-01-05T15:38:39.433-08:00Flood information for Washington consumers hit by weekend stormsSome areas of the state were flooded by the heavy rains over the weekend. Here's a refresher about&nbsp; floods and insurance:<br /><ul><li>Homeowner policies typically do not cover flood damage. Flood damage is not on standard homeowner policies and most commercial policies, although many people assume it is. That can be a costly assumption. Your mortgage lender may require you to have flood insurance if your home is located in a flood-prone area, also known as a "special flood hazard area." You can estimate your property's flood risk <a href="http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/pages/flooding_flood_risks/defining_flood_risks.jsp" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">online.</a></li><li>Most people buy flood insurance through the government’s National Flood Insurance Program, which is run by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). These policies are sold through local insurance agents and brokers, which you can <a href="http://www.floodsmart.gov/floodsmart/pages/choose_your_policy/agent_locator.jsp">locate online</a>. As with most policies, there are <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/home-insurance/flood/">limits to what is covered</a>.</li><li>If your vehicle is damaged in a flood, your auto policy’s comprehensive coverage typically will cover it. However, you should verify you have that type of coverage with your insurance agent or broker. Read more about <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/auto-insurance/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">auto insurance</a>.</li></ul>Read more about <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/home-insurance/flood/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">flood insurance</a> and <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/home-insurance/winter-weather-coverage/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">damage caused by winter weather</a> on OIC’s website.<br />http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2015/01/flood-information-for-washington.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-5373443567603469796Mon, 05 Jan 2015 23:11:00 +00002015-01-05T15:13:42.302-08:00Are you prepared for 2015? Start the new year by reviewing your policiesThe start of a new year is a great time to review your insurance policies. Did you have a baby? Get married? Buy a new home or car? If so, you'll want to check whether you have the right protection. <br /><br />Take some time to talk with your agent, broker or company and review your policies and see if they meet your needs. Your agent or company can help determine whether your current policies provide adequate coverage or if you might need more or less. Even if you haven't experienced a life-changing event, you could be eligible for discounts or new insurance products may better serve your needs.<br /><br /><strong>Life insurance</strong><br />Changes—such as a birth, divorce, remarriage or even a new mortgage or new job—are indicators that you might need to make changes to your life insurance policy.<br /><br />Read your policy carefully and answer these questions:<br /><ul><li>Do premiums or benefits vary from year to year? </li><li>How much do the benefits build up in the policy? </li><li>What part of the premiums or benefits is not guaranteed? </li><li>What is the effect of interest on money paid and received at different times on the policy? </li><li>In what situations and through what procedures can you assess cash values? </li><li>Can the policy be converted into another form of insurance or annuity? </li></ul>If you had a child or got married, you might want to consider increasing your death benefit. Check with your agent to see if your insurance company requires a physical exam before increasing your coverage. Alternatively, events like paying off your mortgage, retirement or children finishing college might mean that you can lower your life insurance coverage and premiums. Ask your insurance agent or company about your options.<br /><br />Read more about <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/life-insurance/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">life insurance</a>. <br /><br /><strong>Homeowner or renter insurance</strong> <br />This is a great time to update your home inventory and make sure your homeowner or rental policy is up-to-date.<br /><ul><li>Take photos or video of your prized possessions. Remember to note any antique items and their value so you can talk with your insurance agent or company to ensure they are adequately covered.&nbsp;</li><li>Add any new gifts to your home inventory. Include as many details as you can and take a photo of each item. </li><li>Most basic home insurance policies have standard limits for big-ticket items like electronics, art, jewelry or sporting equipment. You may need special coverage, so call your agent to discuss changes for your policy. </li></ul><br />Also, consider your environment. Your home could be located in an area prone to flooding or earthquakes. These disasters can be costly, and may not be covered under a standard policy. Speak to your agent about possibly adding coverage for these perils.<br /><br />Read more about <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/home-insurance/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">home insurance</a>. <br /><br /><strong>Auto insurance</strong> <br />Here are the basics of auto insurance: <br /><ul><li>Liability is the part of the policy that pays for any injury or damage if you cause an accident. If your liability insurance is too low, it is possible that you could be sued for any damages above your liability limits.</li><li>Review your deductibles for comprehensive and collision coverage. This is the amount you will pay if your car is damaged or totaled without fault of another driver. Raising or lowering this amount can affect your premium. </li><li>Before hitting the road, make sure you have a copy of your insurance card and your insurance agent or company's number in your vehicle. </li></ul>Read more about <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/auto-insurance/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">auto insurance</a>.<br /><br /><strong>Health insurance</strong><br />You may have recently enrolled or changed your health insurance whether through your employer, Medicare or our state’s exchange, <a href="https://www.wahealthplanfinder.org/">Washington Healthplanfinder</a>. Make sure you have your insurance cards. Before you visit a doctor, verify that your paperwork is in order.<br /><br />Check your provider lists to make sure visits to your doctor and any specialists are still covered by your policy, as in-network or preferred provider lists change each year. Read your documents and make note of copayments for in-network and out-of-network providers so you are not surprised later.<br /><br />If you're planning a vacation away from home, check with your insurance carrier to identify urgent care centers and hospitals that accept your insurance coverage near your destination and along the way. Ask your insurance plan about applicable co-pays and deductibles if care is needed.<br /><br />Read more about <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/health-insurance/understanding-health-insurance/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">health insurance</a>.<br /><br /><strong>Be fraud wise</strong><br />Insurance fraud can happen to anyone, anywhere. Protect by following these tips:<br /><ul><li>Don't give out any personal information—including your social security number or bank information—over the phone until you have verified the legitimacy of the insurance company and agent with your state insurance department. </li><li>Ask for copies of everything you sign and keep a copy of the payment receipt or check for the initial premium payment you gave the agent for the policy. </li><li>Call the insurance company if you don't receive a copy of the insurance policy outlining your coverage and its limitations within 30 days of your purchase. </li><li>The best way to protect yourself from insurance fraud is to research the agent and company you're considering. Before signing the contract or paying for the policy, verify they are <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/consumertoolkit/search.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">licensed to sell insurance in Washington</a>.</li><li>You can <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/orders/enforcement.asp" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">search our disciplinary orders</a> or <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/complaints-and-fraud/file-a-complaint/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">file a complaint against an insurance company, agent or broker</a> with the OIC.&nbsp; </li><li>You can also <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/complaints-and-fraud/report-fraud/report-fraud-scams/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">reported suspected insurance fraud</a> to the OIC. </li></ul><br /><strong>Have questions?</strong> <br />We are here to help! If you have questions, you can contact our consumer advocates <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-oic/what-we-do/advocate-for-consumers/consumer-advocacy/talk-with-an-expert/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">online</a> or at 1-800-562-6900http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2015/01/are-you-prepared-for-2015-review-your.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-4471192699794233178Fri, 02 Jan 2015 21:55:00 +00002015-01-02T13:55:01.672-08:00Why did my insurance rates change when I moved to Washington? We get this question quite a bit from consumers about their insurance rates for auto, home, boats, RVs and any other type of property insurance. Each insurer has its own rates, and their rates can differ not only state by state, but within a state as well.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M01ebwugebU/VKb3-vVmrbI/AAAAAAAAASo/8-I9YmFjMeA/s1600/car-on-dollar-bills.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M01ebwugebU/VKb3-vVmrbI/AAAAAAAAASo/8-I9YmFjMeA/s1600/car-on-dollar-bills.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div><br />Insurers rates' must cover the cost of doing business and the number of claims they pay in various regions. Insurers typically use what are called rating territories. Each rating territory can have a different rate associated with it.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/auto-insurance/understanding-auto-insurance/why-does-it-cost-so-much/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Learn more about how insurers set rates</a>.<br /><br />Questions? You can contact our consumer advocates <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-oic/what-we-do/advocate-for-consumers/consumer-advocacy/index.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">online</a> or at 1-800-562-6900.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2015/01/why-did-my-insurance-rates-change-when.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-5277574950760633051Wed, 31 Dec 2014 21:37:00 +00002014-12-31T13:37:25.597-08:00What is the insurance company's role in home repairs? <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y5iBqpROqBA/VKRrblJrT2I/AAAAAAAAASU/pIn2A-eBk9o/s1600/kitchen-repair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y5iBqpROqBA/VKRrblJrT2I/AAAAAAAAASU/pIn2A-eBk9o/s1600/kitchen-repair.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a><br />It’s common for consumers to call us with their concerns about their home repair or home rebuild claims and the insurer's involvement in oversight of the work. The insurer’s duty is to pay according to the terms laid out in the policy. Unless your insurance policy contains a provision, or unless your insurer has given you assurances, that obligates them to manage a covered home repair or rebuild, it is your responsibility to oversee the project with your contractor, and when applicable, your lender. <br /><br /><br />However, if you using an insurer’s recommended (sometimes called “preferred”) contractor, then you should expect assistance from the insurer in answering your questions about the contractor’s actions and performance.<br /><br />Read more about <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/home-insurance/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">homeowner insurance</a>.<br /><br />Questions? You can contact our consumer advocates <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-oic/what-we-do/advocate-for-consumers/consumer-advocacy/talk-with-an-expert/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">online</a> or at 1-800-562-6900.<br /><br /><br />http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2014/12/what-is-insurance-companys-role-in-home.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-1881080604186160725Wed, 31 Dec 2014 00:05:00 +00002014-12-30T16:06:38.447-08:00Important change may affect business owners’ insurance Business owners carry commercial insurance policies to protect their financial interests in their property and to cover their liability arising out their business operations. One of the important liabilities that is covered is in the event that a business is sued. The typical commercial insurance policy includes a clause called “duty to defend,” which means the insurance company is required to defend the business if it is sued and it will pay the associated legal costs. However, some commercial policies are being changed to require businesses to repay legal defense costs if the insurer later determines a claim is not covered.<br /><br /><br /><div>How will you know if your insurance company will require you to repay legal costs? Read your policy or talk to your agent , broker, or with the insurer. Insurers may be adding the clause to new policies or to renewing policies, so it’s important to know what your policy says.<br /><br /></div><div>It’s also important that you promptly report lawsuits to your insurance company. Reporting this information to the insurer too late can impede the insurer’s ability to defend your business against the lawsuit.&nbsp; <br /><br /></div><div>More information:</div><ul><li><a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/business-insurance/filing-business-claim-sued/">Read more about the duty to defend and repaying legal costs</a>. </li><li><a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/business-insurance/understanding-business-insurance/who-needs-it/">Who needs business insurance?</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/business-insurance/understanding-business-insurance/what-to-consider/">Things to consider before buying business insurance.</a></li></ul><div>Questions? Contact our consumer advocates <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-oic/what-we-do/advocate-for-consumers/consumer-advocacy/talk-with-an-expert/">online</a> or at 1-800-562-6900.</div>http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2014/12/important-change-may-affect-business.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-6442039656312584887Wed, 24 Dec 2014 17:39:00 +00002014-12-26T15:22:46.911-08:00Consumers who had trouble with Washington Healthplanfinder have a second chance to enroll The Washington State Health Benefits Exchange has <a href="http://wahbexchange.org/news-resources/press-room/press-releases/sep-opportunity" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">announced a special enrollment</a> through Feb. 23, 2015 for people who have experienced trouble enrolling in a health plan for 2015 through the state’s exchange, Washington Healthplanfinder.<br /><br />“I am pleased that Washington consumers who have had trouble with Washington Healthplanfinder have an option for getting coverage effective Jan. 1,” said Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler. “I encourage affected consumers to act sooner rather than later.”<br /><br />The special enrollment applies to people who made an effort to receive health coverage through <a href="http://www.wahealthplanfinder.org/" target="_blank">http://www.wahealthplanfinder.org/</a> before the Dec. 23 deadline, but who were unable to complete their applications due to a technical error associated with the Washington Healthplanfinder system.<br /><br />Starting at noon today, affected consumers should fill out an online request form for coverage retroactive to Jan. 1 at: <a href="https://petition.wahealthplanfinder.org/" target="_blank">https://petition.wahealthplanfinder.org/</a>. If customers need assistance or do not have Internet access, they can call the Exchange’s Customer Support Center at 1-855-923-4633. Each request will be reviewed and customers will receive a notification of their special enrollment through email or mail.<br /><br />The Exchange also posted a list of <a href="http://wahbexchange.org/files/1314/1940/5169/Jan__1_Coverage_Due_to_Eligibilty_and_Enrollment_Errors_FAQs_DRAFT_14123-3.pdf" target="_blank">frequently asked questions about the special enrollment period</a>.http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2014/12/consumers-who-had-trouble-with.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-2903800505997583270Mon, 22 Dec 2014 19:38:00 +00002014-12-22T11:38:40.855-08:00Does insurance have to replace my entire roof? <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cKjOnvaA_ms/VHS7zvIB-sI/AAAAAAAAAQA/NXQSHYjsr9g/s1600/roof-shingle-repair.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-cKjOnvaA_ms%2FVHS7zvIB-sI%2FAAAAAAAAAQA%2FNXQSHYjsr9g%2Fs1600%2Froof-shingle-repair.jpg&amp;container=blogger&amp;gadget=a&amp;rewriteMime=image%2F*" width="200" /></a>Here's a consumer question related to winter weather: My insurer will repair a portion of my roof that was damaged, but won’t replace the entire roof to match. Can they do this?<br /><br />This is a common question and it's a frustrating issue for consumers. The short answer is yes, insurers can do that. Home insurance policies cover direct physical damage to the roof, like a tree branch falling in a wind storm and poking a hole in the roof, or blowing a section of your shingles off and allowing water to enter. The insurer will repair the damaged portion of the roof and any resulting water damage. The insurer would not pay to repair any sections of your roof that are not damaged.&nbsp; <br /><br />If you decide you want the entire roof replaced, you would have to pay for replacing all non-damaged areas of the roof.<br /><br />Read more about<a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/your-insurance/home-insurance/homeowner"> homeowner insurance</a> on our website. Questions? You can contact our consumer advocates <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-oic/what-we-do/advocate-for-consumers/consumer-advocacy/talk-with-an-expert/">online</a> or at 1-800-562-6900.http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2014/12/does-insurance-have-to-replace-my.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-1451416080675780630Fri, 19 Dec 2014 22:04:00 +00002014-12-19T14:04:50.913-08:00Oregon Insurance Commissioner extends comment period on Mutual of Enumclaw holding company conversionThe <a href="http://www.oregon.gov/DCBS/insurance/gethelp/Pages/answers-and-action.aspx">Oregon Insurance Commissioner</a> has extended the open comment period following the Dec. 15 public hearing of the proposed mutual holding company conversion of Mutual of Enumclaw Insurance Co. Comments must be delivered to the Oregon Insurance Commissioner by 5 p.m. on Dec. 29. Comments should be sent to Russell Latham, Financial Regulation Section, Oregon Insurance Division, P. O. Box 14480, Salem, OR 97309-0405.<br /><br />Mutual of Enumclaw Insurance Co. and its subsidiary, Enumclaw Property and Casualty Insurance Co., have requested permission from the Oregon Insurance Commissioner to reorganize into a holding company structure. Holding companies are corporations that own and control other companies. The new holding company would be the direct owner of Mutual of Enumclaw and the indirect owner of Enumclaw Property and Casualty Insurance Co. Read more about the request in our <a href="http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2014/12/mutual-of-enumclaw-seeks-to-convert-to.html">Dec. 9 blog post</a>. <br /><br />To find information about viewing the plan of reorganization, <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/current-issues-reform/public-notices/2014/" target="_blank">view the Dec. 15 public hearing notice from the Oregon Insurance Division.</a> <br /> http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2014/12/oregon-insurance-commissioner-extends.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-1356939943216976117Fri, 19 Dec 2014 20:14:00 +00002014-12-19T13:08:42.390-08:00Insurance Commissioner fines health insurer $50,000LifeWise Health Plan of Washington has agreed to pay a $50,000 fine for overcharging 5,700 consumers $6 to $38 per month for the first six months of 2014.&nbsp; <br /><br />The health plans were WiseEssentials 25 and WiseSavings 20, which are catastrophic plans that trade a high deductible for a lower monthly premium. They are usually purchased by young, healthy people who want coverage in case of an injury, accident or serious illness. Each year, health insurers are required to file with the OIC their health plans--called "forms" in insurance vernacular--and the rates they will charge for each plan. The OIC then reviews and ultimately approves the plans and rates, working with the insurers when they need to.&nbsp; <br /><br />In this case, the 2014 rates that LifeWise filed for those catastrophic plans had decreased slightly, depending on the enrollee’s age, because the deductible increased. From January through June 2014, LifeWise charged those consumers rates that were based on the 2013 plans, which had higher deductibles.<br /><br />As part of the agreement, called a consent order, LifeWise will repay the affected consumers the amounts they overpaid plus 8 percent annual interest. View the consent order <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/oicfiles/orders/2014orders/14-0141.pdf">here</a>.&nbsp; <br /><br />You can <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/orders/enforcement.asp">search our disciplinary orders</a> or <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/complaints-and-fraud/file-a-complaint/">file a complaint against an insurance company, agent or broker</a> on our website. http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2014/12/insurance-commissioner-fines-health.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-451337995428342175Tue, 16 Dec 2014 19:50:00 +00002014-12-16T11:50:28.719-08:00Edmonds man no longer able to sell insurance The Office of the Insurance Commissioner has revoked the license of insurance producer Earl C. Dennis of Edmonds. <br /><br />In 2012, Dennis borrowed $210,000 from a 79-year-old insurance client, which was a significant portion of the client’s net worth. Dennis promised to secure the loan with the deed to his house, which he never did. He arranged to repay the client at a 2 percent interest rate; an unsecured personal loan from a bank ranges from 7 percent to 15 percent or higher. Dennis stopped making loan payments and still owes the client $90,000. State insurance law allows the Insurance Commissioner to revoke an insurance producer’s license if they borrow money from an insurance client who is not a family member or financial institution. <br /><br />In 2011 and 2012, Dennis sold the same client three annuities, which the client paid for by surrendering two annuities that had higher guaranteed interest rates. In addition to having lower guaranteed interest rates, the three new annuities had limitations and penalties that the old annuities did not have. Insurance producers who sell annuities are required to make an effort to verify that annuities are suitable for their clients’ financial needs and they are required to adequately explain the products to their clients. Dennis did not meet those requirements in this case. <br /><br />The OIC sought to revoke Dennis’ license in August 2014, but Dennis invoked his right to a hearing. The hearings officer upheld the OIC’s revocation, which means Dennis is no longer legally able to sell insurance in Washington state. You can read <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/oicfiles/orders/2014orders/14-0153.pdf">the findings from the hearing</a> on the OIC’s website. http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2014/12/edmonds-man-no-longer-able-to-sell.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-5757126316326887768Wed, 10 Dec 2014 23:35:00 +00002014-12-10T15:35:38.397-08:00Tacoma woman pleads guilty to felony insurance fraud<br />Christine Marie Larsen, 30, of Tacoma pled guilty in Pierce County Superior Court to insurance fraud for purchasing insurance on her vehicle after it was totaled.&nbsp; <br /><br />In November 2013, Larsen’s 2004 Lexus IS300 was totaled in a collision on the freeway while being driven by someone else. The next day, Larsen took out a policy on the car, which was uninsured. She filed a claim for the damages on Dec.1, 2013, stating she had been in a collision that day. The insurance company deemed the car a total loss and paid her $11,250. <br /><br /><br />The insurer, citing red flags, later investigated the claim and found a Washington State Patrol report for the Nov. 25 collision involving Larsen’s car. The driver was cited for the collision and for not having insurance. The insurer referred the case to the Office of the Insurance Commissioner’s <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/complaints-and-fraud/report-fraud/special-investigations-unit/index.html">Special Investigations Unit</a> (SIU). SIU investigates insurance fraud and works with the Attorney General’s Office and local prosecutors to prosecute criminal cases.&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /><br />Larsen was ordered to repay the insurance settlement and court costs. Read the <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-oic/news-media/news-releases/2014/9-25-2014.html">news release</a> about the case.<br />http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2014/12/tacoma-woman-pleads-guilty-to-felony.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-1648077483317581038Tue, 09 Dec 2014 20:35:00 +00002014-12-09T12:35:51.498-08:00Mutual of Enumclaw seeks to convert to holding companyMutual of Enumclaw Insurance Co. and its subsidiary, Enumclaw Property and Casualty Insurance Co., have requested permission from the Oregon Insurance Commissioner to reorganize into a holding company structure. Holding companies are corporations that own and control other companies. The new holding company would be the direct owner of Mutual of Enumclaw and the indirect owner of Enumclaw Property and Casualty Insurance Co.<br /><br /> While the Washington Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC) is not overseeing this conversion, Mutual of Enumclaw has a large customer base in Washington state. The OIC wants Washington consumers to have an opportunity to attend this hearing or provide comment, if they wish to.<br /><br /> The hearing is at 6 p.m. on Dec. 15 in Seattle. <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/current-issues-reform/public-notices/2014/">View the notice</a> for the hearing location and instructions on how to participate by telephone. Comments may be submitted in writing to this address before Dec. 22:<br /><br />Russell Latham, Financial Regulation Section, Oregon Insurance Division<br />P.O. Box 14480<br />Salem, OR 97309-0405http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2014/12/mutual-of-enumclaw-seeks-to-convert-to.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-7476153116918175313Fri, 05 Dec 2014 16:55:00 +00002014-12-05T08:55:57.581-08:00OIC's online applications not availableSome of the Office of the Insurance Commissioner's online applications are down or do not have full functionality. We are working on resolving these issues and hope to restore all online services as soon as possible. Thank you for your patience. http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2014/12/oics-online-applications-not-available.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-6569842412606680633Thu, 04 Dec 2014 23:34:00 +00002014-12-05T08:44:55.605-08:00Contractors Bonding and Insurance Co. seeks OK to redomesticateContractors Bonding and Insurance Co. has requested approval from the Office of the Insurance Commissioner (OIC) to redomesticate from Washington state to Illinois. <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/laws-rules/administrative-hearings/judicial-proceedings/c-d/">View all related documents.</a><br /><br />The OIC has scheduled a public hearing on this request for 11:30 a.m. on Dec. 16 in the <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/connect-with-us/office-locations/tumwater/">Tumwater office</a>. All interested parties may submit letters of support or objections to <a href="mailto:hearings@oic.wa.gov">hearings@oic.wa.gov</a>. Any member of the public may <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/current-issues-reform/public-notices/2014/documents/redomestication-public-notice-contractors-bonding.pdf" target="_blank">attend the hearing</a>. http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2014/12/contractors-bonding-and-insurance-co.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-3450613167378195003Wed, 03 Dec 2014 21:15:00 +00002014-12-03T13:15:41.037-08:00Commonwealth Insurance Co. of America requests approval to change its state of domicile Commonwealth Insurance Co. of America has requested approval from the Washington State Insurance Commissioner to redomesticate from Washington state to Delaware. In plain talk, that means it wants to move its corporate operations from Washington to Delaware. <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/laws-rules/administrative-hearings/judicial-proceedings/c-d/">View the documents the company submitted.</a><br /><br />The Office of the Insurance Commissioner has scheduled a public hearing on this request for 10:30 a.m. on Dec. 16 in the <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/connect-with-us/office-locations/tumwater/" target="_blank">Tumwater office</a>. Interested parties may submit letters of support or objections to <a href="mailto:hearings@oic.wa.gov" target="_blank">hearings@oic.wa.gov</a>. Any member of the public may <a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/current-issues-reform/public-notices/2014/documents/redomestication-public-notice-commonwealth.pdf" target="_blank">attend the hearing</a>.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br />http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2014/12/commonwealth-insurance-co-of-america.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7414498072990582699.post-1824151085315329715Wed, 26 Nov 2014 21:35:00 +00002014-11-26T13:36:02.229-08:00Direct practices lose 35 percent of enrollees, raise fees 23 percentEach year, the OIC reports to the Legislature on the status of direct health care practices in Washington. A direct health care practice is an arrangement where a health care provider charges a patient a set monthly fee for primary health care services. The provider doesn’t bill the patient’s insurance for the services and only provides certain medical services in the office. <br /><div><br /></div>The December 2014 report contains data from July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2014, which is two fiscal years’ worth of information. <br /><div><br /></div>Some highlights from the report:<br /><ul><li>As of June 30, 2014 there were approximately 8,658 direct-practice patients in Washington at 29 practices around the state. Patient participation decreased by 35 percent from fiscal year 2013. Four new practices opened in Seattle, Camas and Centralia. Three practices closed in Spokane and Lakewood. </li><li>Monthly fees at direct practices ranged from $25 to more than $200. The most expensive was $910 per month. The average monthly fee weighted by the number of patients was $150.78, a 23 percent increase from fiscal year 2013. </li><li>The OIC received no consumer complaints regarding direct patient practices in fiscal year 2014.</li></ul><div>The Affordable Care Act now requires health insurance plans to cover 10 essential health benefits, which include preventive services and chronic disease management. It also puts a cap on deductibles that consumers pay each year and direct practice fees do not count toward that yearly maximum. In addition, Washington expanded its Apple Health (Medicaid) program and the state’s individual health insurance market grew 30 percent in fiscal year 2014 to more than 327,000 people. <br /><br /></div><a href="http://www.insurance.wa.gov/about-oic/commissioner-reports/documents/2014-direct-practices-report.pdf" target="_blank">View the full report to the Legislature. </a><br /><br />http://wainsurance.blogspot.com/2014/11/direct-practices-lose-35-percent-of.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Kara K)